Gingivitis, Periodontitis and Gum Disease Treatment in Glen Dale

More often than not, the major culprit for gum diseases is poor oral hygiene. Other factors such as smoking, inadequate nutrition, genetic predisposition and other systemic diseases (i.e. diabetes) are also among the reasons for gum-related problems. Still, gum diseases can be prevented or alleviated by developing good oral habits.

Most commonly, we often hear the word gingivitis as opposed to periodontitis. We refer to gingivitis as a general term to all gum diseases. But gingivitis is actually the mildest form of periodontal disease.

Gingivitis is characterized by swelling of the gums. This causes the gums to redden and bleed. Typically, there is little or no discomfort when a patient has gingivitis.

Periodontitis on the other hand is a severe gum disease. This is a result of untreated gingivitis. Since left untreated, plaque spread and grow below the gum line where the toxins can stimulate a lingering inflammatory response. This will trigger the body to turn on itself and destroy or breakdown the supporting tissues and bones of the teeth.

There are several forms of periodontitis, each one varying in symptoms and progression of the loss of teeth and damage to the gums. Common forms of periodontitis include aggressive periodontitis, chronic periodontitis and necrotizing periodontal disease.

Gum Disease Treatment vary depending on the severity of periodontal diseases. Gingivitis being the mildest is reversible with professional gum treatment and improved oral care at home.

Periodontitis treatment on the other hand, requires further examination and consultation with a periodontist. Periodontists are dentistry’s experts in the treatment of gum diseases. Treatments could be surgical (gum graft surgery, plastic surgery, etc.) and non-surgical (laser treatment, dental implants, etc.).

At Wylie Dental Care, you have the advantage of 17 years of advanced surgical experience in implant dentistry. Call us at (304) 845-2480 to schedule an appointment or visit the clinic at 1589 Wheeling Avenue, Glen Dale, WV.